Idaho is home to many thriving short-term rental markets, but identifying the top-performing cities can be overwhelming, especially when combing through data from countless locations across the state.
To simplify this process, we analyzed data from markets statewide and compiled a list of the top 17 cities for investors and landlords seeking potentially high-return rental properties in the coming year.
As always, we recommend thorough underwriting and analysis of any prospective property and a review of local short-term rental regulations before making any investment decisions.
How We Created This List
First, we looked at all Airbnb listings in Idaho that met the following criteria as of January 2025:
- Average Rating: 4.8 stars and above
- Guest Review Count: Minimum of 10
- Average Daily Rate: $1 (minimum) to $2,000 (maximum)
- Occupancy Rate: 1% (minimum) to 99% (maximum)
- Property Size: 1 to 10 bedrooms
- Property Type: Entire homes
We did this to eliminate Airbnb listings from our analysis that fall outside of what we consider "realistic" situations. This left us with a total of 3,655 Airbnb listings across the state of Idaho to work with.
Next, we grouped these listings by city and eliminated markets that didn't have at least 75 Airbnb listings meeting the above criteria. We took this step to avoid outlier cities we felt didn't have enough data to be considered at this current time. This left us with 17 cities in Idaho to rank.
Then, we needed to arrive at a gross yield number for each of our remaining cities in order to create our rankings. We did this by taking the average annual Airbnb revenue for each city and combining it with the cities median property value (from Zillow as of December 2024) to calculate our gross yield for each city.
Finally, we ordered the cities by highest gross yield.
The Top 17 STR Markets in Idaho
1. Island Park, ID
Island Park, ID, a gem for real estate investors, offers a thriving short-term rental market with its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. Known for its proximity to Yellowstone National Park, guests can explore mesmerizing landscapes perfect for hiking and wildlife watching. As a top destination for winter sports, it attracts tourists for snowmobiling and fishing in Henry's Lake. The local housing market presents lucrative vacation homes and rental properties, promising good return and cash flow for any Airbnb host seeking to capitalize on the booming tourism.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 8.8%
- Average Property Value: $890,868 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $78,201 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 43% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 446 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 175%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Island Park, ID →
2. Moscow, ID
Moscow, ID, an emerging gem in the short-term rental market, offers enticing prospects for real estate investors. Known for its vibrant arts scene, Moscow hosts the annual Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, attracting music enthusiasts from around the world. Sports fans can catch thrilling games with the University of Idaho Vandals. With its charming downtown, picturesque landscapes, and cultural attractions, this city is becoming a top choice for tourists. Investing in vacation homes here can provide good rental income and strong cash flow for those entering the vacation rentals space.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 5.5%
- Average Property Value: $616,853 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $33,762 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 45% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 95 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 111%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Moscow, ID →
3. Twin Falls, ID
Twin Falls, ID is a prime destination for short-term rental properties, offering real estate investors strong rental income potential. Known for its stunning Shoshone Falls, often compared to Niagara Falls, the area attracts tourists year-round. Outdoor enthusiasts flock for hiking, rock climbing at City of Rocks, and events like the annual Magic Valley Folk Festival. As a hub for Airbnb hosts, this market promises a good return in tourism-driven cash flow. With its vibrant housing market, investing in Twin Falls vacation rentals is ideal for those seeking high visitor engagement.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 5.1%
- Average Property Value: $487,475 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $24,667 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 41% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 150 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 83%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Twin Falls, ID →
4. Idaho Falls, ID
Idaho Falls, ID, is a hidden gem in the short-term rental market, ideal for real estate investors seeking profitable opportunities. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, it serves as a gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, attracting nature-loving tourists. The vibrant arts scene, historic downtown, and annual events like the Mountain Brewers Beer Fest entice visitors year-round. As a potential Airbnb host, you'll benefit from Idaho Falls’ steady tourism, generating solid rental income and good cash flow from vacation homes in this thriving real estate market.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 5.0%
- Average Property Value: $525,380 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $26,523 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 40% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 231 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 78%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Idaho Falls, ID →
5. Sandpoint, ID
Sandpoint, ID, nestled by the serene shores of Lake Pend Oreille, is rapidly gaining traction among real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Known for its charming downtown, Sandpoint attracts tourists with Schweitzer Mountain Resort's exhilarating skiing and summer biking trails. The Festival at Sandpoint hosts live music events, drawing visitors annually. This vibrant tourism scene ensures robust rental income for vacation homes, making Sandpoint one of the best places for Airbnb hosts seeking a good return and steady cash flow on their investment properties.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 4.8%
- Average Property Value: $945,335 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $45,381 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 32% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 202 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 87%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Sandpoint, ID →
6. Meridian, ID
Meridian, ID is a thriving tourism hotspot for short-term rental properties, making it one of the best places for real estate investing. Visitors are drawn to its family-friendly attractions like Roaring Springs Water Park and Wahooz Family Fun Zone, as well as the Meridian Speedway for thrilling motorsport events. With a burgeoning real estate market, real estate investors will find short-term rental income opportunities attractive. The area's robust housing market offers good returns and promising cash flow for Airbnb hosts aiming to capitalize on increasing tourist interest.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 4.8%
- Average Property Value: $703,427 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $33,458 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 46% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 178 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 58%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Meridian, ID →
7. Nampa, ID
Nampa, ID is an emerging hotspot for the short-term rental market thanks to its vibrant attractions and rich community events. Known for the Ford Idaho Center, which hosts concerts and rodeos, and the Warhawk Air Museum, it draws tourists year-round. With easy access to wineries and outdoor activities, vacation homes here promise good returns and steady rental income. Real estate investors eyeing this dynamic housing market can capitalize on the growing demand for unique Airbnbs, making it one of the best places for short-term rental properties in 2025.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 4.6%
- Average Property Value: $535,705 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $24,850 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 146 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 75%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Nampa, ID →
8. Caldwell, ID
Caldwell, ID is an emerging star for short-term rental properties, attracting tourists with its rich wine country experience at Sunnyslope Wine Trail and vibrant events like the Caldwell Night Rodeo. This growing real estate market offers real estate investors a good return on vacation rentals, particularly for those looking to capitalize on local tourism. With attractions like Indian Creek Park and proximity to Boise, Caldwell provides strong rental income potential for Airbnb hosts. Investors seeking lucrative cash flow will find the Caldwell housing market among the best places for str investment property.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 4.6%
- Average Property Value: $559,744 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $25,550 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 82 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 97%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Caldwell, ID →
9. Victor, ID
Victor, ID, nestled near the scenic Teton Range, is a hidden gem for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. With its proximity to Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole, Victor attracts tourists year-round for hiking, skiing, and its vibrant arts scene. It's a prime location for vacation rentals, offering good returns and rental income for Airbnb hosts. Special events like the Targhee Music Festival lure visitors, solidifying Victor as one of the best places for investment properties in the thriving housing market.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 4.5%
- Average Property Value: $1,351,317 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $60,407 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 44% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 242 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 74%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Victor, ID →
10. Boise, ID
Boise, ID is a vibrant hub for real estate investing, especially in the short-term rental market. Known for its scenic surroundings and welcoming community, Boise offers abundant attractions that lure tourists year-round. Visitors can explore the Boise River Greenbelt, enjoy cultural events at the Boise Art Museum, or cheer at a Boise State Broncos game. This blend of experiences, coupled with the city's burgeoning real estate market, makes it an ideal spot for real estate investors seeking good return and cash flow from vacation rentals.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 4.3%
- Average Property Value: $694,296 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $29,777 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 48% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 799 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 64%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Boise, ID →
11. Rexburg, ID
Rexburg, ID, a hidden gem for real estate investors in the short-term rental market, offers unique attractions and events that attract tourists. Home to Brigham Young University-Idaho, it draws families and alumni year-round. Nearby Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Teton Range lure nature-loving visitors. Rexburg hosts the annual Pioneer Day celebration and summer rodeos, making it a vibrant tourism hub. With vacation homes offering good return potential and solid rental income, Rexburg's housing market is prime for investment property opportunities.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 4.2%
- Average Property Value: $556,254 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $23,420 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 39% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 121 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 92%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Rexburg, ID →
12. Driggs, ID
Driggs, ID is a hidden gem for real estate investors seeking lucrative short-term rental properties. Nestled near the Grand Teton Mountains, this charming town offers endless outdoor attractions like skiing at Grand Targhee Resort and hiking in Teton Valley. Driggs attracts tourists with events like the Teton Valley Balloon Rally, making it one of the best places for vacation rentals. The vibrant tourism scene ensures steady rental income, providing a good return and strong cash flow for real estate investing in this promising housing market.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 4.2%
- Average Property Value: $1,268,689 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $53,350 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 45% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 226 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 85%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Driggs, ID →
13. Donnelly, ID
Donnelly, ID, is an emerging gem for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. Nestled near the picturesque Payette Lake and Tamarack Resort, it offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and vacationers. This charming locale hosts events like the annual Donnelly Huckleberry Festival, drawing tourists with its vibrant community spirit. With its growing popularity among airbnb hosts, Donnelly presents one of the best places for investment properties, promising good returns and rental income from vacation homes year-round.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 4.0%
- Average Property Value: $1,256,429 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $50,765 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 32% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 93 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 53%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Donnelly, ID →
14. Pocatello, ID
Pocatello, ID is a burgeoning destination for short-term rental market enthusiasts and real estate investors, offering promising rental income and good return. Nestled in the heart of southeastern Idaho, Pocatello boasts attractions like the Idaho Museum of Natural History and Ross Park Zoo. Its vibrant local culture includes special events like Poky Allen Events Center sports matches and music festivals. With its thriving tourism scene, Pocatello stands out as one of the best places for vacation rentals, making it an optimal choice for Airbnb hosts and vacation home investors.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 4.0%
- Average Property Value: $472,317 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $18,980 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 38% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 128 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 80%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Pocatello, ID →
15. Mccall, ID
Nestled in the heart of Idaho, McCall is a top destination for real estate investors eyeing the short-term rental market. With breathtaking views of Payette Lake and Brundage Mountain, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and offers year-round attractions such as skiing, hiking, and boating. The housing market benefits from robust tourism, thanks to events like the McCall Winter Carnival and rich local culture. Investing in vacation rentals here promises good returns and lucrative rental income for Airbnb hosts looking to attract tourists and guests to their properties.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 3.3%
- Average Property Value: $1,272,207 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $42,248 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 32% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 276 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 63%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Mccall, ID →
16. Ketchum, ID
Nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Ketchum, ID is a vibrant hotspot for real estate investors eyeing short-term rental properties with strong potential for rental income. Known for its world-class skiing at Sun Valley Resort, hiking trails, and cultural events like the Sun Valley Film Festival, it attracts tourists year-round. The dynamic real estate market offers vacation homes and investment properties that promise good returns, making it one of the best places for airbnb hosts seeking high guest occupancy and strong cash flow.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 2.5%
- Average Property Value: $3,358,860 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $83,402 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 36% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 141 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 92%
Find Airbnbs For Sale in Ketchum, ID →
17. Sun Valley, ID
Sun Valley, ID offers a vibrant short-term rental market ideal for real estate investors seeking good returns. Known for its breathtaking scenery and year-round attractions, it’s a hotspot for tourists. Vacation homes here provide proximity to ski resorts and stunning hiking trails, attracting visitors in both winter and summer. Sun Valley hosts events like the Sun Valley Film Festival and Jazz Jamboree, drawing global attention. The robust tourism scene ensures consistent rental income for Airbnb hosts and makes it one of the best places for investment property.
Key STR Metrics:
- Average Gross Yield: 1.9%
- Average Property Value: $3,014,347 (as of December 2024)
- Average Annual Revenue: $58,643 (past 12 months)
- Average Occupancy Rate: 32% (past 12 months)
- Qualifying Airbnbs: 99 (as of January 2025)
- Year-Over-Year Growth in Airbnbs: 73%
